Climate Change Week kicks off in Belize City

The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Solid Waste Management, through the National Climate Change Office (NCCO), is hosting Belize’s Fourth National Climate Week which opened today.  An official ceremony took place this morning with activities planned to raise public awareness and foster dialogue on the nation’s climate efforts.  Climate Week is designed to be a comprehensive and engaging experience for all attendees. Each day is dedicated to a specific theme with Day 1 focused on the opening ceremony and youth engagement; Day 2 will highlight the critical sectors of forestry and agriculture; Day 3 will showcase efforts in energy, water, and biodiversity, and Day 4 will focus on policy, youth, and the important role of Indigenous leadership in climate decision-making.  Prime Minister John Briceno was the keynote speaker at this morning’s event where he spoke on the challenges Belize faces in tackling the effects posed on the country from industrial nations.

John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “For a vulnerable country like Belize, climate change poses an existential crisis for us. This week of activities provides a pivotal platform.  It demonstrates our commitment to be a leader in this important matter and it provides us the opportunity to show our pursuit of a more resilient,  sustainable Belize. Over the last year, Belize has taken historic steps to position itself as a leader in global climate diplomacy. As one of only two nations in the Caribbean thus far, Belize submitted our enhanced national determined contribution NDC 3.0. This is a blueprint that charts our climate ambitions through 2035. But this is more than a document. It is a national commitment, a promise  for future generations, a roadmap for a low carbon climate resilient Belize. Our forests, marine ecosystems and renewable energy projects will become not only symbols of our stewardship but engines of sustainable growth.”

This week’s showcase is geared at boosting public awareness about the global Conference of Parties (COP) process and highlight Belize’s own climate efforts. Discussions will cover key national strategies like the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), carbon market implementation, and National Adaptation Plans (NAPs). The event, themed “Adapting Today, Sustaining Tomorrow: Resilient Roots, Greener Future,” will feature panel discussions and interactive booths. The week will conclude with the National Climate Finance Forum on August 29.